The Cabinet of Tower Hamlets Council met on Wednesday 24 June 2020, discussing the council's response to COVID-19, a contract variation for a diesel surcharge, and the SME Energy Improvement Grants Programme. Decisions were made regarding the diesel surcharge and the SME grants, while the council's COVID-19 response was reviewed and an update was provided on the Regional Adoption Agency.

COVID-19 Response and Recovery

The meeting included a significant discussion on the council's and borough's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Councillor James King, Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, provided an update on the committee's review, highlighting key themes that emerged from discussions with community members and partner organisations. These included the strength of partnership working, the barrier of digital exclusion for vulnerable residents, the desire for learning for a potential second wave, and the need to improve support for rough sleepers and homeless families. Specific insights were shared by Pam Bamrose, Chair of the Tower Hamlets Housing Forum, regarding housing associations' benefits from partnership agreements, the impact of overcrowding, and challenges in supporting residents with no recourse to public funds. Ian Parks, Chief Executive of the East London Business Alliance, discussed the impact on businesses and the economy, praising the council's leadership but noting the challenges faced by local businesses. Dr. Jackie Appleby and Dr. Lauren Batty, GPs and Chair and Vice Chair of the Tower Hamlets Local Medical Committee, highlighted health challenges, including deprivation among BAME residents, issues with the government's track and trace system, high mortality rates in care homes, and the exacerbation of pre-existing mental health conditions. Neighbours in Poplar, represented by Sister Christine and Muna, shared their perspective on issues exacerbated by the pandemic, such as lack of internet access and the impact on the meals service for elderly residents. The council's response to COVID-19 is expected to be a focus of future discussions, particularly concerning its impact on the community, finances, and local economy.

Contract Variation for Diesel Surcharge

Cabinet approved a contract variation for a diesel surcharge on unpaid parking. Councillor Dan Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Environment and Public Realm, introduced the report, explaining that this is a cost-saving measure estimated to bring in an additional £1.5 million in revenue from a 50% diesel surcharge for paid-for parking. He noted that while the number of diesel vehicles using paid-for parking might fall, this is not anticipated to be significant in the short term, with other boroughs seeing around a 10% reduction. The purpose of the policy is to discourage diesel vehicles in central London due to air quality concerns, a move supported by the council's commitment to improving air quality.

SME Energy Improvement Grants Programme, Phase 2

The Cabinet approved £225,000 of grant funding from the Council's Carbon Fund to deliver the second phase of the SME Energy Improvement Grants Programme. Councillor Asma Islam, Cabinet Member for Environment and Public Realm, explained that the programme provides grants of up to £5,000 for 50% of project costs to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Tower Hamlets to undertake energy reduction projects. These projects aim to reduce energy consumption and associated carbon emissions, supporting a green recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. Phase 1 of the programme was successful, with 43 SMEs receiving grants totalling nearly £200,000, resulting in carbon emission reductions of 148 tonnes. Councillor James King raised a pre-decision scrutiny question regarding the promotion of heat electrification and the minimisation of new boiler installations. David Esdaile, Environmental Sustainability Officer, clarified that while gas boilers can be funded if they meet specific carbon reduction benchmarks, the programme is increasingly looking towards electrification of heating as a more efficient method for achieving net-zero targets.

Update on Regional Adoption Agency

An update was provided on the progress of the Regional Adoption Agency, Adopt London East, which involves Tower Hamlets and several other East London boroughs. Councillor Danny Hassell, Cabinet Member for Children and Schools, reported that work is underway to integrate processes and procedures, with a focus on improving performance and outcomes for children and young people. While some indicators have improved, there are areas for further development, particularly concerning court processes and adoption timelines. Councillor Asma Islam inquired about the position on kinship care, and Councillor Hassell confirmed that Adopt London East is aware of and addressing these issues, with specific work being done around kinship carers and guardians. Councillor James King sought clarification on the expected timescales for improvements in adoption rates and timescales, and it was noted that while COVID-19 has impacted some aspects of the approval process, placements have continued. Lisa Marie Minnis, an officer in Children's Services, highlighted a surge in inquiries but noted a particular challenge in finding suitable adopters within the Black, African, and Caribbean communities, with a campaign planned for September. Debbie Jones, Corporate Director for Children's Services, emphasised the council's commitment to ensuring that adoption is considered for any child where it is the right decision, regardless of the complexity of their needs.

Nominations to Outside Bodies

The Cabinet agreed to recommendations for nominations to five outside bodies. This item also included amendments to committee memberships following recent changes in the Cabinet. Mayor John Biggs thanked existing appointees and encouraged new appointees to undertake their roles effectively.